Our Guide To Keeping Polkadot Splitfin Fish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Chapalichthys peraticus
- Common name: Polkadot Splitfin
- Family: Goodeidae
- Origin: Mexico
- Adult length: 6.5 cm
- Lifespan: 3 to 5 years
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Tank Setup:
- Polkadot Splitfins prefer a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 40 litres (10 gallons) is recommended for a small group of these fish.
- Provide ample hiding places and areas with dense vegetation to mimic their natural habitat. They appreciate plants like Java Moss, Anubias, and floating plants like Water Sprite.
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Water Parameters:
- Polkadot Splitfins thrive in slightly alkaline to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0.
- Keep the water temperature between 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A gentle to moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides adequate circulation without creating strong currents.
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Diet:
- Polkadot Splitfins are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Polkadot Splitfins are peaceful community fish and can be kept with other peaceful species such as livebearers, small tetras, rasboras, and peaceful barbs.
- They are best kept in a species-specific tank or with other goodeid species to prevent interbreeding.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Polkadot Splitfins are active swimmers and may display minor territorial behavior, especially during breeding.
- They are generally peaceful but can be aggressive towards conspecifics, particularly during mating.